Beyond the Worksheet

Beyond the Worksheet is the podcast for educators who are ready to break free from busywork and reimagine what real learning looks like. Hosted by Dr. Jess Laine, a passionate educator and researcher, each episode explores innovative, student-centered teaching methods that go deeper than the surface—from discovery learning and project-based instruction to inquiry, creative assessment, and more.

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, school leader, or education student, you’ll gain practical strategies, research-based insights, and honest conversations about what works (and what doesn’t) in today’s classrooms.

Because worksheets have their place—but learning should go beyond them.

In this premiere episode, Dr. Jess Laine dives into the challenges facing today’s schools—from declining student engagement to the post-pandemic achievement gap. Drawing directly from her dissertation research, she explores why discovery learning has gained renewed attention, how it compares to traditional teaching, and what the latest data really say about student success. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just curious about what works in education, you’ll get a clear, research-backed introduction to why moving “beyond the worksheet” matters now more than ever.

Beyond the Worksheet is the podcast for educators who are ready to break free from busywork and reimagine what real learning looks like. Hosted by Dr. Jess Laine, a passionate educator and researcher, each episode explores innovative, student-centered teaching methods that go deeper than the surface — from discovery learning and Montessori education to project-based learning, inquiry, and more.

Whether you're a classroom teacher, school leader, or education student, this podcast will give you practical strategies, research-based insights, and real talk about what works (and what doesn’t) in today’s classrooms.

Because worksheets have their place — but learning should go beyond them.

Hi, I’m Dr. Jess Phelps—though on my podcast, you’ll know me as Dr. Jess Laine! I’m a math educator, California Studio Teacher, and Ed.D. with a passion for making learning clear, approachable, and fun. From classrooms to film sets (think Stranger Things and Fuller House), I help students of all backgrounds build confidence and succeed. Join me as I share real stories and strategies to help every learner thrive!